1994 Holden Nova vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1994 Holden Nova is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (90 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1994 Holden Nova. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana should accelerate faster than 1994 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Holden Nova weights approximately 225 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (145 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Holden Nova. 1981 Volkswagen Santana has automatic transmission and 1994 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1994 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Holden Nova | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | Nova | Santana |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2560 mm |
